For nine seasons, Arbanas was a gifted edge blocker for the Chiefs’ superb running game, and one of Len Dawson’s favorite passing targets. Despite missing his rookie season of 1961 due to ruptured disks in his back, and losing the vision in his left eye after being mugged in December 1964, Arbanas started for nine straight seasons, was a first- or second-team All-AFL selection six different times, and earned a spot as a tight end on the All-Time American Football League team. “He was a real player,” said Dawson, “a guy who came to play every down.” Arbanas earned the respect of his All-Pro linemates Jim Tyrer and Ed Budde, and used to join the Chiefs’ offensive linemen for dinners on the road (they referred to themselves as “The Grease House Gang”). Upon his retirement, Hank Stram praised Arbanas for his courageous play and determination: “He unselfishly dedicated himself to the success of the team and was instrumental in helping us develop our rich winning tradition.”